Pamaquine

An antimalarial drug

Pamaquine
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Pamaquine, also known as plasmoquine, is an antimalarial drug belonging to the class of 8-aminoquinoline compounds. It was one of the first synthetic antimalarial agents developed and was used primarily for the treatment of Plasmodium vivax and Plasmodium ovale infections.

History

Pamaquine was synthesized in the early 20th century as part of efforts to develop effective treatments for malaria, a disease caused by Plasmodium parasites transmitted through the bites of infected Anopheles mosquitoes. It was introduced as a therapeutic agent before the discovery of more effective and less toxic alternatives such as chloroquine and primaquine.

Mechanism of Action

Pamaquine acts by interfering with the electron transport chain in the mitochondria of the malaria parasite. This disruption leads to the accumulation of toxic metabolites within the parasite, ultimately resulting in its death. Pamaquine is particularly effective against the exoerythrocytic forms of the parasite, which reside in the liver.

Pharmacokinetics

Pamaquine is administered orally and is absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract. It undergoes extensive hepatic metabolism and is excreted primarily in the urine. The drug has a relatively short half-life, necessitating frequent dosing to maintain therapeutic levels.

Side Effects

The use of pamaquine is associated with several side effects, the most notable being hemolytic anemia in individuals with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency (G6PD deficiency). Other side effects may include nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Due to these adverse effects, pamaquine has largely been replaced by safer alternatives.

Current Use

While pamaquine is no longer widely used in clinical practice, it remains of historical interest as one of the pioneering antimalarial drugs. Research into its mechanism of action has contributed to the development of newer antimalarial agents.

Related pages

• Malaria
• Antimalarial medication
• Primaquine
• Chloroquine

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  Pamaquine